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Derbyshire-based waste management specialist Ward has invested close to £1 million in environmental improvements at its recycling facility in Chesterfield.

Ward acquired the metal recycling and waste processing plant at Newbridge Lane in Chesterfield in early 2015 and during an 18-month programme of works has carried out a number of upgrades, including a purpose built 10,000 sq ft building used for recycling metals and waste, as well as groundworks and increased noise minimisation measures.

The new building complex, which was officially opened by Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins earlier this month, includes a 15-metre high wall that acts as a sound barrier, significantly reducing noise levels from the site. The improvements made to the site will provide better facilities for the workforce and the investment is intended to bring more sustainable jobs to the area.

Ward predominantly recycles ferrous and non-ferrous metals such as steel, cast iron, cars, stainless steel, aluminium, copper, zinc and lead at the site. The works have increased the space available to sort materials and securely store them, extending Ward’s capabilities for recycling materials and minimising waste to landfill.

Perkins said: “It was a great pleasure to open Ward’s new £1m investment in Chesterfield. I hope that the new site both enables Ward to expand their investment in Chesterfield and alleviates some of the noise issues that Ward has responded constructively to.

“Finding a reasonable balance between industry’s legitimate operational needs, which aid hitting recycling targets and limiting the impact on people’s quality of life is very important to me. There has been constructive dialogue between Ward and the local community, I hope that their impressive new site leads to sustainable expansion that enhances the local environment.”

Donald Ward, Head of Technical & Recycling at Ward, added: “Over 50,000 tonnes of waste material is recycled at our Chesterfield site each year and we employ 40 people locally. We wanted to bring the old buildings on site up to date and improve the environment for our team and the local community alike.

“Now that the installation of the building and other works are complete, it is hoped from this state of the art facility we can continue to our work in minimising waste to landfill and pass on savings, offering better value waste and recycling services in the Midlands.”

Andy Priestley contractor DSP Interiors Ltd was responsible for the fit out of the building and added: “This has been a great project to work on with Ward. It will make a real difference to the team’s facilities. We are particularly proud of the eco credentials of this style of build and how we have maximised the use of recycled products within the building.”

Ward will continue to invest in Chesterfield with its soon to launch, Spire Skips - a dedicated local skip hire service offering low cost hire for businesses and households.

For more information on Ward and its waste management services, visit www.ward.com.